The Chinese Grand Prix live on Motors Inside!

This is more exciting than ever for me! According to poleman Lewis Hamilton himself, everything is set for a second race full of twists and turns!

On the gigantic track of Shanghai (14 meters wide), the Briton maintained the lead during the Qualifications. But adversity emerged two weeks ago, in the person of Sebastian Vettel. The two mentioned drivers once again headline the top of this Grand Prix. Winner in Melbourne, the German from Scuderia Ferrari will start in second position, after defeating the other Mercedes by 1 thousandth of a second! Pushed eight meters further back, Valtteri Bottas will start once again from the third spot, ahead of his compatriot Kimi Räikkönen in the other Ferrari.

Behind them, a gap is gradually widening. Leading the others, by 0.9 seconds, Daniel Ricciardo aims for a trouble-free race to bring in the first points of his season. Dreaming of a better result under normal conditions would be hardly conceivable for the Australian, who will have the mission of carrying his team. And for good reason: the other Red Bull will start only from 17th position. On four cylinders, Max Verstappen could hardly work miracles during Q1.

But today, everything can be questioned! As forecasted, the rain is very much present over the Chinese circuit! For example, the young Dutchman can remember a previous race contested under such conditions: the 2016 Brazilian Grand Prix, which was a clear demonstration of his agility. However, the cars have changed since the winter. Wider, more powerful, but also more unpredictable, this wet race could be a real puzzle for many drivers! Especially since the start will automatically take place on the starting grid and no longer behind the Safety Car.

The race will, in any case, be an opportunity for the French to redeem themselves, as both were eliminated in Q1 this Saturday. In 18th and 19th places respectively, Esteban Ocon and Romain Grosjean will only be able to move up in the ranks! For that, overtaking, the great fear of the moment, will need to be possible.

But unlike Melbourne, the entire grid is walking on eggshells when it comes to settings. Let’s recall that Friday was a washout in terms of practice, only FP3 could provide some baseline for the participants.

So, who will stay afloat in Shanghai? Who will sink?

Are the coffee and croissants ready? Take your seats for this live event, broadcast in text commentary.

This live is meant to be interactive: feel free to share your insights and questions regarding the follow-up of this Grand Prix!